Delhi-NCR Schools To Shift To Hybrid Classes After Supreme Court Asks CAQM To Relax GRAP Restrictions For Educational Institutes

Hours after the Supreme Court’s directive to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) asking it to review its decision, educational institutions in Delhi-NCR have been directed to adopt a hybrid model for classes up to standard 12.

This move aims to address the educational disruption caused by prolonged closures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which had imposed restrictions on physical classes due to hazardous air quality.

The Supreme Court, which earlier called for a review of the restrictions, noted the adverse impacts of school closures, including disruptions to mid-day meal schemes, limited access to online learning for many students, and the lack of air purifiers at home.

It urged the CAQM to ease restrictions, balancing public health concerns with the need for education to continue. The hybrid model will be implemented wherever feasible, offering students the flexibility to attend classes online if they or their guardians prefer.

The decision primarily affects students in Classes 10 and 12, who have been particularly impacted by the restrictions, as they require physical attendance for practical lessons, tests, and preparations for board and competitive exams.

The CAQM acknowledged that most primary schools lack the infrastructure for fully online education but emphasised that the hybrid approach would be a viable solution for higher grades.

While the hybrid model will apply to all schools, the choice of online education will rest with students and their families, based on their circumstances and available resources. The Directorate of Education (DoE) in Delhi has directed all school heads to implement this change immediately and communicate it to parents and guardians.

The decision comes as Delhi and neighboring areas are experiencing poor air quality, which typically worsens during the winter months due to unfavourable weather conditions. The city often faces air quality levels that trigger Stage III and IV restrictions under the GRAP, leading to significant disruptions in daily life, including the education sector.

While the CAQM's move provides relief to students and families, the Supreme Court emphasised that any further relaxation of physical class restrictions would depend on a consistent improvement in air quality. The court also underscored the importance of not compromising public health while addressing the educational needs of students.